The current framework programme (FP7) for research and technology development, which has a seven-year budget of €50.5 billion, ends in 2013 and set to be replaced by a new programme (FP8) in 2014 which will run until 2020.
The UK Government has called for evidence on how the new programme can be improved in the future.
The responses will inform a Government strategy paper on UK priorities for the future development of the new Framework Programme and presented to the European Commission.
It wants to see the programme become less bureaucratic and more attractive to participants - especially businesses.
Lesley Griffiths, the Welsh Assembly Government’s Deputy Minister for Science, Innovation and Skills, wants to ensure that the views of relevant organisations and individuals in Wales are included.
“This is a unique opportunity to help influence the direction and structure of the next funding programme – I urge all those involved in the science, engineering and industry communities to participate.
“This framework programme is Europe’s dedicated funding mechanism for research. Since its inception in the early 1980s these Programmes have steadily increased in size and scope with spending under the current programme in the order of €6-7 billion per year.
“The UK as a whole does well from the programme with our universities, research centres and businesses winning €1.8 billion since 2004. Wales needs to attract more serious funding for research and development activities and this programme offers an extremely attractive opportunity to do that.
“It is therefore important that we take advantage of this call for evidence and I hope that relevant organisations, businesses and individuals in Wales participate.”
The Commission is expected to publish an initial communication on the likely shape and structure of FP8 in the first half of 2011, followed by a formal proposal in 2012.
All responses need to be submitted by the 4th of January 2011
FurtherInformation
Consultation DocumentTSB Discussion ForumAnyone requiring any assistance or further information should contact Lisa Wheatley of the Welsh Assembly Government on 02920 828863 or email at
lisa.wheatley@wales.gsi.gov.uk